What lay beyond the vortex, nobody knew. At least nobody this side of it. Eli was sure it was a portal. With only one way to find out and nothing to lose, he jumped, exiting into a pool of water filled with beings he only later learned called themselves humans.
This tiny story is a response to a picture and word prompt from Justin Deming. You can read other responses, including Justin’s on Fifties by the Fire in his publication, Along the Hudson (which, by the way, I highly recommend).
Justin provided the picture that accompanies this story and asked that writers include one or more of the words vortex, portal, and whirlpool. I used two of them.
I think the image is gorgeous and I like the idea that readers naturally assume the protagonist is human. I have no idea what kind of being the protagonist actually is, but I think he would find himself the object of great interest to those he meets on the other side.
I wonder what he thought of those beings called humans. Would have been an interesting sojourn if he'd found a way back. And, oh, the stories he'd have to share!
Loved the story, Dascha! Thanks so much for mentioning Along the Hudson. 🙏